3 Must-See Attractions on The Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island or Hawaii Island as it’s also known is the largest Island in the Hawaiian Archipelago. Famed for it’s rainforests, active volcanoes and lush beaches (including some with sand of a colour you might not expect) the island has something to offer all visitors.

Every year nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts are attracted to enjoy the delights of one of the most diverse places on earth. So whether it’s day hikes inland, water-sports both above and below the surface or simply relaxing in one of the many Big Island Vacation Rentals available, you’ll leave Hawaii with a big smile and no doubt a bucket list for your next visit.

What Not to Miss on The Big Island

Creative Commons Flickr Credit: Erik Wilde

Kiholo Bay

Not just a single beach but more a series of them, Kiholo Bay is one of the most unique stretches of coastline in Hawaii. Possibly the biggest appeals of this area is that it’s rarely crowded, giving it an off the beaten path kind of feel.

Once a lively fishing village and home to important island locals, Kiholo was a victim of the Mauna Loa volcano eruption in 1859 which cleared most the area. The rocks still sitting around the edge of the lagoon are remnants of the manmade fishing pond that was once there and along with the lava, provide a stark contrast to the turquoise shallow waters and deep blue beyond.

Hapuna Beach State Park

A recreation area consisting of a huge park and the islands largest white sand beach, the Hapuna Beach State Park offers consistently good conditions for swimming, sunbathing, bodyboarding and snorkelling.

It is not only considered by many to be the best beach on the island but is often voted as the best beach in the United States by various well respected publications. The stunning setting and rave reviews have led to the beach becoming very popular with weddings, parties and photo shoots.

A visit here isn’t complete without checking out the both ends of the beach. The north end offering a small, sand-bottomed cove with still water perfect for children while the south end boats sea cliffs offering fantastic views of both sunset and sunrise.

Creative Commons Flickr Credit: trickofthelight

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Established in 1916, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes,  the Mauna Loa mentioned earlier and the worlds current most active volcano, the Kilauea. Due to the parks natural significance it was designated a world heritage site in 1987. Today the park offers tourists dramatic views of volcanic landscapes and scientists a deeper insight into the birth of the Hawaiian Islands.

Without a doubt one the major attractions of the park is driving The Chain of Craters road. A 19 mile long road built in 1928, the drive takes you past several craters from historic eruptions over the years and out towards the coast. Throughout the years the road has been covered in lava several times thanks to local eruptions.

While clearly a stunning drive it’s important to check daily reports from the US Geological Survey before beginning the trip.

Have you been to The Big Island? What’s your top tip for anyone heading there soon?